During our Sept/Oct 2020 road trip, we were passing close enough to Horseshoe Bend near Page, Arizona and thought it was worth a stop. We were glad we did as it was well worth visiting.
What is Horseshoe Bend?
Horseshoe Bend is a an area where the Colorado River bends around a sandstone bluff almost creating a circle which resembles a horseshoe. This area has been referred to as the East Grand Canyon, although Grand Canyon National Park actually begins 9 miles downstream. In reality, Horseshoe Bend itself is part of the Glen Canyon Recreation Area.
Location
Hike to Horseshoe Bend Overlook
Horseshoe Bend was easy to find, but when you arrive it looks like you are in just a sandy, dry area. As a result, you will have to hike to the overlook to see the bend. The 1.5 mile round trip hike to this scenic site is easy but hot. Even though the hike is short you will want to bring water. There is a slight incline up and the path is sandy but not difficult. The walk seems rather unassuming and then all of a sudden, there it is. Horseshoe Bend in all its glory.
Walking above the bend is rocky, so careful footing is needed, but nothing technical. In addition, be careful not to get too close to the edge as the sand can make it a bit slick.
Conclusion
In conclusion, I would definitely stop here again. The geology is just amazing and so pretty. We went mid morning and it was not busy, but as we were leaving the parking lot was starting to fill up. Note that there is a per vehicle fee here, although I think it was only $10 per car. Other than hiking, there are more recreation options. You can also find additional information on their website. Click here for the Horseshoe Bend website.
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Click on the Below Links for More of our Road Trip Fun!
Zion National Park
Riverside Walk and the Narrows, Oct 2020
Emerald Pools in Zion, Oct 2020
Canyonlands National Park
Dead Horse Point State Park, Oct 2020
Elephant Hill Road, Canyonlands, Oct 2020
Hike the Joint Trail, Canyonlands, Oct 2020
Jeeping the White Rim Road, Canyolands Sept, 2020
Aztec Butte, Canyonlands, Sept 2020
Grand View Point and Grand View Hike, Sept 2020
Mesa Arch in Canyonlands, Utah, Sept 2020
Capitol Reef National Park
Bryce Canyon National Park
Hiking the Navajo and Peek-A-Boo trail in Bryce Canyon, Oct 2020
Sunrise and Sunset at Bryce Canyon, Utah, Oct 2020
Escalante National Park
Peek-a-Boo and Spooky Slot Canyons, Oct 2020
Stunning isn’t it – we were there in summer 2019.
It is beautiful!!
Looks spectacular!! I’d love to see it.
I was actually surprised at how much I liked it!!
Beautiful, worth the walk!
It certainly was!!
This was our first exposure to canyons in Arizona on our 2018 trip. A great stop, but with blowing sand and people with no fear taking dangerous selfies. Thanks for the memories Lori. Allan
You are right, Allan, lots of people taking dangerous selfies and photoshoots. We kept a good distance from the edge as the sand made the rock slick. I think positioning of the camera took good photos without the danger of getting close to the edge. Lori
Wonderful post and photos!
Thank you!!
great photo of the two of you with the Horseshoe Bend and river behind you…
Thank you! We had such a good time on this trip!
that’s what it sounds like from reading about it!
Ah, I had booked to go to Horseshoe Bend (along with Antelope Canyon) in March 2020 for my birthday, but unfortunately, I had to cancel due to the impending COVID-19…so envious you got to go in the fall! I’ll definitely have to find a time in the future (when the pandemic subsides) to try going again! Thanks for sharing your adventure there. 🙂
Hope you can go soon!
Love go there..such a site to see.
We really were impressed!
Beautiful photo! I always look forward to reading about your hikes. BTW – I nominated you for the travel photo challenge, if you are interested.
Thank you. Although I appreciate the nomination I am going to decline. Thank you though!